Smart Limoges Pass
Guided tours
Groups and events
Shop and ticket office
Labeled "Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant", with two production sites in Limousin (Limoges and Oradour-sur-Glane) and eight shops in its own name in France and abroad, Bernardaud is the leading manufacturer and exporter of porcelain tableware in France.
A bit of history
The Bernardaud factory, founded in 1863, is a family business specializing in porcelain, located in the Limoges region. Its history dates back to the discovery of kaolin in 1768, a key ingredient for the manufacture of porcelain. Leonard Bernardaud, initially an apprentice, became a pillar of the company and developed it by opening it up to new markets. His successors modernized production by adopting innovative technologies such as the gas oven and the isostatic press. Today, under the direction of Michel Bernardaud, the factory continues to innovate while preserving traditional skills.
Discover its exceptional know-how on a guided tour
Immerse yourself in the heart of the fascinating world of porcelain during a guided tour from the Bernardaud factory. Of a period of 1h15, this immersive experience will reveal the manufacturing secrets of this precious material, from the raw material to the finished product.
During your visit, you will discover the historical workshops of the foundation built in 1863 and attend a demonstration of the unique know-how of porcelain artisans through the enameling of a piece. From modeling to decoration and the many unsuspected steps, you will uncover the mysteries of porcelain and understand why Limoges is renowned throughout the world for its know-how.
At the end of the tour, permanent and temporary exhibitions can be discovered, such as the presentation of services used by the largest tables in the world. It is also an opportunity to visit the factory store and its wide choice of table services and many gift ideas, but also the prestige boutique, with the latest contemporary creations.
An accessible and enriching experience for young and old, from 7 to 77 years old!
Treat yourself to a moment combining discovery and conviviality
For coffee and tea lovers, embark on a guided tour unique, accompanied by a conférence captivating. Dive into the story of the arrival of the tea and coffee in France and discover how these drinks inspired porcelain designers to design innovative pieces.
Treat yourself to a warm moment by choosing a cup (in porcelain of course), accompanied by the drink of your choice and a sweet treat, then let yourself be carried away by the fascinating history of the conquest of tea and coffee.
Guided tours
By reservation only, limited places
Simple Guided Tour:
- Availability: Monday to Saturday
- Duration: 1h15
- Fees : Adult: €8 / 18 years old & art student – Free
Guided Tour + Conference:
- Availability: Wednesdays and Fridays
- Duration: 2h30
- Fees : Adult: €20 /18 years old & art student: €15
1 free visit to Bernardaud with the Limoges Malin Pass!
The new temporary exhibition: Absolute.
Until March 29, 2025, the Bernardaud Foundation invites you to discover ABSOLUTE., an exhibition of contemporary ceramics that pushes the boundaries of the material. Thirteen international artists present des sculptural works where personal expression meets a rare artistic requirement.
These creations, silent and mysterious, transport us into refined and profound universes. Like islands of poetry, they are the fruit of a perpetual quest, where each gesture, meticulously considered, resonates with a spiritual power. In the image of the famous ceramist Peter Voulkos, artists take risks, with works that are not only mastered, but live and breathe through the emotion they give off.
Come and let yourself be enchanted by this meeting between matter and soul, where the ceramic becomes a means of poetic and meditative expression. An invitation to contemplate the absolute.
The exhibition in pictures
Pratical information
Bernardaud Foundation
- Phone : 05 55 10 55 91
- E-mail : contact@bernardaud.com
- Address: 27 Avenue Albert Thomas, 87000 LIMOGES
- Opening of points of sale (Boutique and Factory Outlet): Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 13:30 p.m. to 18 p.m.
